Afghanistan (MNN) — India and Pakistan have sent humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan after a deadly earthquake that killed over 1,000 people. India sent 20,000 tons of wheat, along with 13 tons of medicine and 500,000 COVID-19 vaccines.
The earthquake left thousands without shelter and at risk of hunger, exposure, and a cholera outbreak. The official death toll has reached 1,150.
Afghanistan remains cut off from most international aid. World governments have shunned the Taliban over human rights abuses.
Christian aid organizations
In times of disaster, people often rely on local churches or Christian groups. Floyd Brobbel with The Voice of the Martyrs Canada says, “For Afghanistan, we’re talking about a hidden remnant of believers that are active in some ways. There’s a disadvantage to the Taliban government because they don’t have a church to turn to that would be able to help out in this crisis.”
Of course, the Taliban continues to persecute Christians. Since they seized power last year, many Christians have fled from the country.
Brobbel says this could be a great opportunity for Christian organizations to go into Afghanistan and show Jesus’ love. “They don’t need to fully hide their identity as a Christian organization. But they need to assure the government officials that they are coming in because there’s a need, because they’re seeing hurting people and have relief that they can bring. And as soon as that work is done, they’ll pull out.”
“I don’t think that there would be much risk to them in that regard.”
As Afghans search for hope, ask the Holy Spirit to draw many to Jesus. Pray for heart change among the Taliban.
The header photo shows Afghans digging through rubble after the earthquake. (Photo courtesy of FMI)
